GB2431919A

GB2431919A - Fibre-optic security module

Info

Publication number: GB2431919A
Application number: GB0522586A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Mark Graveston; Robert Coleman
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2005-11-04
Filing date: 2005-11-04
Publication date: 2007-05-09
Also published as: GB0522586D0

Abstract

The system is based on measuring light attenuation on a fibre optic light guide 5 that is threaded through two brackets 1 and 2 which would be affixed correspondingly to two parts of a an object that needs to be protected or monitored. For a breach to occur, the two brackets would have to be separated and this action would cut the light conduction fibre. Another example shows the use of tow brackets (19, 23, Fig.6) where the fibre is not necessarily threaded through the brackets, but where separation of the brackets would result in a change in curvature of the fibre that would reveal a change in light attenuation thus triggering the alarm function. As the fibre in the latter case is not broken, a breach in the system is non-destructive of the module. The module can incorporate a processor for updating, logging date and time as well as positioning via the aid of a GPS system.

Description

Pagel 2431919 Title Security Module

Background

Security of packages, containers, cases in transit or storage have become paramount due to terrorism, theft, smuggling in recent years. This security module has been invented to indicate whether the package, container or case that this device is fitted too has been opened or tampered with, other conditions can also be recorded such as temperature, humidity or C02 levels if required.

The main problem with current monitoring and security devices is that the amount of information reported is not always sufficient or that secure as the device operation can be circumvented.

This security module is also suited to reporting status of doors, windows, drive-way sensors, fences and security panels when constructed in the walls, floors and roofs of containers and cases.

Statement of invention

To overcome the problems highlighted above, this invention proposes an optical circuit that is positioned through the security module. This module is constructed as to distort the optical fibre transmission characteristics if unauthorised entry is attempted or gained. For example 1. If a case is tampered with then the optical fibre attenuation could be increased in a controlled manner to a pre-determined level depending on application and this would be recorded and reported via an alarm, wireless communication or hard wired to a control unit or status lights or LED's.

2. The unauthorised entry as in example 1. would be indicated by an increased attenuation from that of the tamper condition or the fibre being broken in a controlled manner and again the status and conditions being stored and or reported in the same way as the tamper condition warning.

3. When configured in a building security application, movement of doors, windows, fences, drive-way and pressure devices would be reported in the elevation of reduction in optical attenuation Page 2 depending on condition and this change being reported in the same way as examples 1 & 2.

Other parameters are also stored in the operation of the full device of which this security module forms a part such as for example user ID, hand set ID, time, date, location, locking code, battery condition, GPS co-ordinance and / or customer specific information.

If this device is tampered with or opened by unauthorised personnel the conditions will be recorded (as many or few conditions as a customer specifies) and the unit will not be able to be reset to hide the intrusion as the security module in airline, freight and secure package configurations has a destructive design set-up.

Advantages This security module can be used in many applications for example, cases for use by the airline industry (FIG 10), on freight containers on ships, lorries, trains etc, (FIG 13) door and window sensors when configured in a building security applications.

This security module has non-destructive and destructive configurations depending on applications. The benefit of the destructive configuration is that the module can be disabled and not re-activated by unauthorised personnel thus improving security and when configure with a processor can store the time and details of the activation for fault and security trace ability. The security module is also capable of disabling an identification chip which has a unique identification code or ID stored in it if required, depending on application, again reducing the opportunity for this module to be reactivated.

Introduction of drawings

Figure 1 shows destructive modules that cut a small section of fibre out of a loop of optical fibre (glass, plastic or other light carrying medium).

Figure 2 shows that different guides and supports that separate the top and bottom sections of the security modules.

Figure 3 shows destructive modules that cut a larger section of fibre out of a loop of optical fibre (glass, plastic or other light carrying medium).

Page 3 Figure 4 shows how the path of the fibre through the module can be changed to reduce the chances of the optical fibre realigning after it has been cut.

Figure 5 shows destructive modules that can carry multiple fibres and chip..

Figure 6 shows single stage non-destructive security modules in normally open configuration, typically used in building security configuration.

Figure 7 shows a two stage security modules being non-destructive in stage 1 and destructive in stage 2.

Figure 8 shows a non-destructive lockable security module that locks in the closed position.

Figure 9 shows the security modules configured into a security panel.

Figure 10 shows a typical security unit that would be fitted to cases, trunks, containers or similar.

Figure 11 show security unit fitted to a case that may be used by the airline industry.

Figure 12 shows a security unit fitted to a freight container that may be used in the haulage, shipping, rail and storage industries.

Figure 13 show how the security modules can be configured around a building to monitor doors, windows, fences and pressure plates.

Detailed Description

The security module shown in fig 1 is in a destructive configuration where the top section 1 has a single tab with a hole that fits into bottom section 2. An individual or multiple optical fibres are then threaded through both sections, the fibre or fibres is shown as 5. In this configuration any movement of either 1 or 2 will result in the fibre or fibres 5 being cut the length of fibre being severed is dependent on the size of the tab 3 and the distance between the tabs in the bottom section shown as 4. A section of fibre is removed in order that it is unlikely that the two ends of the original fibre or fibres will remain in contact after the breakage.

Page 4 The security module may require stabilising depending on construction.

Figure 2 shows ways that this may be achieved, a rod and cylinder arrangement is shown in 7, 8 shows a rod and cylinder configuration with a spring that can be arrange as to hold the top and bottom sections of the module apart or together depending on configuration and application.

Both 7 and 8 are not limited to a rod a cylinder shape others shapes may be used. 9 show the top and bottom sections of the module being supported by a bi-metallic switch which could be used to sense changes in temperature and in doing so change the position of the top and bottom sections of the security module relative to each other.

Figure 3 show the security module in a multi destructive configuration with the top section being shown with three tabs 10 and the bottom with two 11. Again the size of the section of fibre cut out of the original fibre is dependent on the size and positioning of 12 and 13. The number of tabs and columns 11 in a module is not limited and will depend on the amount of fibre destruction required.

Figure 4 show a few different fibre routes though the module, 14 show the fibre going through the module in a straight line and being cut by three tabs. 15 show the fibre entering the module on one level and dropping as it goes through the module, this will reduce the chances that the two fibre ends will orientate in such a way that an optical path might be possible between them. 16 show the fibre taking a curved path through the device and the fibre on both sides of the device being presented on a different axis, again reducing the chances of maintaining an optical path.

The security module can have more than one hole of any shape or slot in it and is shown in figure 5 with three holes 17 and also incorporating a slot 18 which can be used to house an identification chip.

Figure 6 show the security module configured in a non-destructive configuration where the top 19 and bottom section 20 do not break the fibre or fibres 24 but induce a controlled bending action that attenuates the loss through the optical fibre. The severity of the bends induced by 21, 22 and 23 are dependent on the bend sensitivity of the fibre used and the attenuation loss required and can be adjusted by altering the spacing of the tabs in 19, the columns in 20 and by limiting the travel of the stabilisers shown in fig 2, numbers 7, 8 and 9. The path of the fibre can be seen 24 when the security module is activated and 25 shows the fibre in a straight line when the module is inactive.

Page 5 The security module can used in a combined configuration figure 7, in a non-destructive mode when operated in stage 1 shown by 26 where the travel of the top section 27 or the bottom 28 is limited to a point where the fibre is not broken but bent in a controlled manor. If the travel of 27 or 28 is then increased to stage 2 shown by 29 then the fibre is cut by the increased travel when the holes in the tabs on the top section 30 pass the columns of the bottom section 31.

The security module can also be constructed in a way that when activated or operated the position of the top section 34 and bottom section 35 is held constant, figure 8 shows a module that locks in the attenuated position when activated as the clips on the tabs of the top section 32 lock into the recesses in the bottom section 33. The module stays in this position until unlocked manually such as specialised tool, lock and key or a device activated by a intranet, internet or coded transmission. This module can also be configured to lock in the open position from a closed position if required.

The security modules can be used within a panel that as shown in figure 9 where the outside wall, top or base of a case, container, trunk, lorry trailer or similar receptacle is shown as 36. The top or bottom section of the security module or modules 38 is connected to a moveable panel shown as 37 and the remaining section of the security module or modules 38 is connected to the secondary panel or inside of the case, container, trunk, lorry trailer or similar receptacle 40. The optical fibre running through the security module or modules is shown as 39. The panels 38 and 40 are stabilised by 41 which are constructed the same or similarly to 7, 8 and 9.

Any impacts or tampering in the form of drilling, cutting, heating or any intrusive action will caused the panel 37 to be pushed inwards as it is free to move thus activating the security module or modules 38. The type of security module used, destructive, non- destructive or combination would depend on the application. The panel may be arranged as a single unit filling the entire wall, floor, roof or lid or made-up of multiple panels as shown by 42, this configuration is inter-changeable if a panel is damaged or activated.

Figure 10 show an example of a complete security unit 43 that has the security module fitted 42, the security module could be destructive, non-destructive or combination module again depending on application. This example could be used in luggage, cases, trunks, diplomatic cases, containers or similar used by the aircraft industry, and or for freight security. The complete security unit 43 is fitted to the inside of the case, trunk, container or similar and consists of a cassette 44 which houses the Page 6 security module 42 an optical fibre or fibres 45, this cassette 44 can be interchangeable and uniquely serialised if required. The security unit also consists of * Rechargeable battery unit 46, recharged outside the unit or by a physical connection.

* Main processor 47 that will control the operation of the security unit, store data, monitor switches, monitor the optical performance of the fibre 45.

* Back-up battery 48.

* Interface and display unit 49. Can have an LCD display, combination of LED's, interface socket or incorporate Blue Tooth interface or similar wireless interface.

* Light source and light sensitive detector 50.

* Security module activation arm 51. In other applications this could be a push button, solenoid activated by heat, gas, C02, water or change of state or condition monitor.

* Plunger 52, which is pushed or pulled by a spring 53.

* Lock mechanism 54 which is used in the case, trunk, diplomatic case and similar applications to hold the lid of the said case, trunk, diplomatic case and similar closed. This lock can be motorised and activated by the main processor 47 when the correct information has been entered.

* Shear pin or shear plate 55 that is installed in the lid or opposite side of the container housing to the complete security unit 43. This is fitted as on some occasions the container, case will need to be opened without the lock being released correctly. For example in cases where keys have been lost, codes and combinations entered incorrectly or forgotten. This item 55 is designed to be broken when required and replaced cheaply and the entry in this manor has not damaged the main unit 43 or the lock 54, this will be dependant on the application.

* Lid of container 56.

* Lock position sensor 57, could be a micro switch or proximity sensor.

* Battery removal sensor 58, activated when battery removed and fitted.

* Plunger position sensor 59. Could be a micro switch or proximity sensor.

* Cassette sensor 60. Activated when the cassette 44 is removed and refitted.

Page 7 An example of how the security unit would be used in a secure aircraft luggage configuration fig 11.

A passenger would place their luggage inside the secure luggage fitted with the security unit. The passengers details, flight number, number of bags, destination etc would be entered into a PC or read from the barcode label generated by the airline. The passenger would then be asked to enter a code into a keypad, this code will then act as the open/close activation code for the case that the passenger only has access to.

Once the code has been entered the code and passenger details including time etc are transferred to the case via the interface 49 and stored in the main processor 47. After a security unit condition test is performed to check battery voltage levels 46 and the condition of the security module 42 has been verified the lock command will be allowed, closing the lock 54. The case is now ready to proceed though the airport facilities, customs etc. if the case is opened at any time before the passenger has re-entered their code then this action will be recorded by the main processor 47.

Periodically luggage needs to be inspected by customs during its journey, if this is required then the customs officers will be able to open the case using a master override code. The time the case is opened, customs office identification and the terminal used to unlock the case is recorded by the main processor 47 again making the security of the luggage inside fully traceable, additional information can also be recorded if required.

The security module can be configured to transmit a signal via blue tooth or similar wireless communication if the case had been tampered with or opened, an audible signal could also be activated if needed. Sensors placed around the airport or in the aircraft cargo compartment would detect this transmitted signal and trigger an alarm. Similarly a signal could be transmitted from the sensors around the airport, aircraft or portable device that would be capable of detecting a specific case by transmitting a signal that would trigger a response by a single case or transmitting a general request for all cases to send a response making it easier to find luggage that had been misplaced or checking what luggage is present in a particular area.

When the luggage reached its destination the passenger would enter their code and the case would unlock but a record that the case had been inspected can also be reported and the customer informed if required.

Page 8 An example of how the security unit would be used in a freight container configuration figure 12 In this example the security unit 43 is fitted to the door of the container this is because when the door is open the security module is not obstructing the goods being loaded thus protecting the unit from potential damage. The unit would perform in the same manner as the aircraft luggage example. The feature of the wireless transmission when tamper or unauthorised entry has occurred to be of considerable advantage to customs officials as the sheer number of containers being shipped around daily make it very difficult to adequately inspect each container.

Alternatively each container could be sent an information request code wirelessly requesting information about when the container was locked, by who, where and contents list etc. Other features such as CO2 monitoring, smoke detection, humidity levels etc could also be incorporated in the system but again the security module makes the unit tamperproof as once the module is activated the fibre or fibres are irreparably damaged in destructive configuration so only authorised companies or individual can re-activate the unit.

Building security configuration The security modules can be configured in a building security configuration as shown in figure 13. Each module can be placed serially around a single fibre loop or be configured in individual circuits 67. The modules can be built into hinge mechanisms 61, window guides or frames 62, fence posts or panels 63 and pressure plates 65. The modules can also be activated by a simple push button as in a panic mode or triggering an alarm 66, this type would normally be lockable non-destructive module that could be reset where as the door, window, fence pressure plate unit will normally be just non-destructive modules. The modules can also be attached to other devices such as smoke alarms 64 that activate the Security module when triggered.

Claims

Page 9 Claims What is claimed:- 1. A Security Module that induces a

controlled change in the optical characteristics of a single or multiple glass, plastic or other light-carrying fibre circuit.

2. The Security Module of claim 1 further comprising: an optical circuit that is routed through the Security Module with the optical characteristics of this circuit being monitored to detect a change in optical attenuation.

3. The Security Module of claim 1 further comprising: a light source optically connected to one end of the optical circuit with the output being monitored by an optical detector at the other end of the optical circuit.

4. The Security Module of claim 1 further comprising: a data storage medium that stores and analyses the changes in the characteristics of the optical circuit with the capacity to store other user specific data.

5. The Security Module of claim 4 further comprising: an alarm that is triggered by a change in the optical characteristics of the optical circuit.

6. The Security Module of claim 4 further comprising: a physical or wireless interface for data loading and data recovery.

7. The Security Module of claim 5, wherein the alarm can be audible, visual, stored data or transmitted via a wireless interface.

8. The Security Module of claim 1, wherein the Security Module is configured to be non-destructive to the optical circuit routed through it inducing a controlled attenuation when activated returning to the original state when deactivated.

9. The Security Module of claim 1, wherein the Security Module is configured to be non-destructive to the optical circuit routed through it when used in stage 1 and destructive when further activated to stage
2.

10. The Security Module of claim 1, wherein the Security Module is configured to be destructive to the optical circuit routed through it when activated to a degree that optical transmission through the circuit is no longer possible and fibre alignment is controlled to prevent re-alignment.

Page 10 11. The Security Module of claim 1, wherein the Security Module is configured to be non-destructive to the optical circuit routed through it inducing a controlled attenuation when activated and being held in this position until released or unlocked.

12. A travel case, comprising: a lid and base an optical circuit through a Security Module and a mechanism that activates the Security Module when the case is tampered with changing the optical characteristics of the optical circuit.

13. A method of claim 12, further comprising: a mechanism that activates the Security module when the case is tampered with and if unauthorised opening occurs.

14. A method of claim 12, further comprising: the Security Module induces a change in the optical characteristics of the optical circuit through it when activated due to tampering.

A method of claim 12, further comprising: a change in the characteristics of the optical circuit, activating an alarm.

16. A method of claim 12, further comprising: a change in the characteristics of the optical circuit, storing time and date.

17. A method of claim 12, further comprising: a change in the characteristics of the optical circuit, storing data.

18. A method of claim 12, further comprising: a change in the characteristics of the optical circuit, activating a wireless transmission.

19. A container, comprising: a door, walls, floor and ceiling an optical circuit through a Security Module and a mechanism that activates the Security Module when the door is tampered with changing the optical characteristics of the optical circuit.

20. A method of claim 19, further comprising: a mechanism that activates the Security module when the container door is tampered with and if unauthorised opening occurs.

21. A method of claim 19, further comprising: the Security Module induces a change in the optical characteristics of the optical circuit through it when activated due to tampering.

Page 11 22 A method of claim 19, further comprising: a change in the characteristics of the optical circuit, activating an alarm.

23. A method of claim 19, further comprising: a change in the characteristics of the optical circuit, storing time and date.

24. A method of claim 19, further comprising: a change in the characteristics of the optical circuit, storing data.

25. A method of claim 19, further comprising: a change in the characteristics of the optical circuit, activating a wireless transmission.

26. A method of claim 19, further comprising: a change in the characteristics of the optical circuit, storing GPS co-ordinates.

27. A security panel that can be fitted to the inside walls, floor and ceiling of containers and trunks made up of two panels with Security Module or Modules fitted between these panels and a single or multiple optical circuit through the Security Module or Modules.

28. The security panel of claim 27, where in the Security Module is fitted between two panels with the panel between the outside wall and the inner panel being free to move.

29. The security panel of claim 28, wherein any intrusion from the outside will cause the panel between the outside wall and the inner panel to move; activating the Security Module changing the optical characteristics of the optical circuit through the Security Module.

30. A method of claim 27, further comprising: a change in the characteristics of the optical circuit, activating an alarm.

31. A method of claim 27, further comprising: a change in the characteristics of the optical circuit, storing time and date.

32. A method of claim 27, further comprising: a change in the characteristics of the optical circuit, storing data.

33. A method of claim 27, further comprising: a change in the characteristics of the optical circuit, activating a wireless transmission.

34. A method of claim 27, further comprising: a change in the characteristics of the optical circuit, storing GPS co-ordinates.

Page 12 35. A building security system that is constructed with Security Modules that change the optical characteristics of a optical circuit installed around a building and grounds of a property when the Security Modules are fitted to doors, windows, fences, pressure plates, smoke detectors, panic buttons.

36. A method of claim 35, further comprising: a change in the characteristics of the optical circuit, activating an alarm.

37. A method of claim 35, further comprising: a change in the characteristics of the optical circuit, storing time and date.

38. A method of claim 35, further comprising: a change in the characteristics of the optical circuit, storing data.

39. A method of claim 35, further comprising: a change in the characteristics of the optical circuit, activating a wireless transmission.